- Plumbing adjustments: $4,000 to $8,000 for drain relocation or rerouting supply lines
- Tile and finishes: $5,000 to $12,000 depending on materials
- Labor and contractor fees: $7,000 to $14,000
Expert insight:
“Homeowners underestimate the cost of waterproofing by at least 20% on average. Skimping in this area is the fastest way to burn through contingency funds later,” said David Kline, Licensed General Contractor at Kline Construction Group with 22 years of experience.
Step 3: Secure the Right Professionals
A wet room is not a DIY-friendly remodel. It involves structural adjustments, advanced plumbing, and specialty waterproofing systems. Hiring the right professionals ensures accountability and reduces risk.
Checklist for hiring:
- Verify contractor licensing and insurance.
- Ask for wet room-specific project references.
- Request written warranties for waterproofing membranes.
- Confirm subcontractor responsibilities in the contract.
Expert insight:
“Look for contractors who use branded waterproofing systems like Schluter or Wedi. These manufacturers often provide extended warranties if installed by certified professionals,” said Michael Torres, Senior Project Manager at AquaBuild Systems with 18 years of experience.
Step 5: Plan for Drainage and Plumbing Adjustments
Drainage is where many wet room projects either succeed or fail. A curbless design requires precise floor slopes and often relocation of plumbing lines.
Considerations:
- Linear drain installation typically costs $1,200 to $2,800.
- Relocating a main drain can add $3,000 to $6,000.
- Secondary drains may be required in larger wet rooms.
Budget tip: Always include a contingency reserve of 15% for plumbing, as hidden issues behind walls or under floors frequently surface.
Step 7: Manage the Timeline Realistically
A wet room remodel often takes longer than a standard bathroom renovation because of waterproofing cure times and specialized installation steps.
Typical timeline:
- Demolition: 1 week
- Plumbing adjustments: 1 to 2 weeks
- Waterproofing and curing: 1 to 2 weeks
- Tiling and grout curing: 2 to 3 weeks
- Fixture installation and final inspection: 1 week
Total estimated duration: 6 to 9 weeks depending on project complexity.
Step 9: Maximize Return on Investment
While wet rooms are stylish and accessible, not every property market values them equally.
ROI considerations:
- In urban condo markets, wet rooms can increase resale appeal by up to 15%.
- In suburban family homes, some buyers may prefer traditional bathtubs, which can limit resale value.
- Accessibility features such as curbless entry and slip-resistant flooring can qualify for tax credits in certain regions.
Maintaining Your Investment
A wet room bathroom is a high-performance upgrade that requires ongoing care. Regular inspections, timely grout resealing, and filter replacements for ventilation systems will extend the life of the installation. Homeowners should also keep copies of warranties and installation records, as these documents matter for future resale value and insurance claims.
The financial reality is clear. Wet room bathrooms are an investment that can cost significantly more upfront, but when managed correctly they provide a modern, accessible, and long-lasting solution. By following a structured installation checklist, securing skilled professionals, and protecting the budget with contingency planning, homeowners can achieve a space that is both functional and financially sound.
For those considering the next steps, consulting a certified kitchen and bath designer or licensed contractor with wet room experience is the safest way to ensure the project pencils out at both the short-term and long-term levels. The right team combined with disciplined financial planning will protect your investment and help you enjoy your new wet room bathroom for many years.
